Operations

To the moon, Salata!

Photo: Salata

January 4, 2024

Houston-based Salata Salad Kitchen franchisee John David and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration are opening a location within the main campus of the Johnson Space Center in Houston.

David, who owns a Salata location across from the Space Center, has been catering salads and wraps to NASA employees since 2018. Due to the success of this initial collaboration, a full-time residency has been established. Since its onset in early August, the kitchen has increased sales by 20% and is available to NASA employees Monday through Thursday, David said in a company press release.

"I'm honored that my location has been chosen to further this collaboration with such an important establishment to the nation," said David, who also owns Salata restaurants across the greater Houston area including Kingwood, Westlake and Spring. "Over the years, we have built the trust of those at the Johnson Space Center and are eager to continue serving the hard-working employees."

Salata, which has 95 locations, offers built-to-order salads and wraps as well as soups, teas and lemonades.

"This partnership reflects a shared commitment to innovation and excellence," Michele Maerz, president of Salata, said in the release. "John has built this partnership through extensive relationship building and we are proud to see our dedicated franchisees further elevate the brand into esteemed organizations like NASA. His leadership and success of this initiative underscores the positive impact that thoughtful dining options can have on our workforce."